Steelers Now
PITTSBURGH — Seventh-round pick Carson Bruener is already buying into the tough, physical identity that comes with playing linebacker in Pittsburgh. During rookie minicamp, the former Washington standout showed signs of adapting quickly to the Steelers’ storied defensive culture — one that he was literally raised on.
“Just the downhill attacking mentality. That’s the biggest thing, is they don’t let people run over them. Everyone’s running to the ball. They’re just aggressive, and I like that aggressive mindset,” Bruener said.
Bruener is no stranger to the Steelers’ tradition. His father, Mark Bruener, was a former tight end for the team and currently serves as a scout in the organization. That family connection made his draft moment all the more meaningful.
“I mean it was awesome just being able to see my phone ring, seeing the 412, Pittsburgh,” Bruener said. “Even before I answered, I flashed my phone to my dad. He was like, ‘Answer the dang phone, like what are you doing?’ So I’m on the phone, he immediately has my brother grab the Steelers hat, my mom sees that and starts bawling, grandma bawling. It was just a fun time, just being able to see how happy they are for me, and it was kind of a crazy moment.”
At Washington, Bruener put together a prolific career. He totaled 306 tackles, including 10 tackles for loss, and added three interceptions. Known for his versatility, he was a dependable inside linebacker who contributed in both run support and pass coverage, while also being a consistent presence on special teams.
He joins a competitive linebacker room in Pittsburgh that includes Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson, Cole Holcomb, and Mark Robinson. As a seventh-round selection, Bruener’s spot on the 53-man roster is far from guaranteed. However,
his ability to contribute on special teams and his physical, high-effort playing style may give him a path.
The Steelers have a long-standing tradition of hard-nosed linebackers, and Bruener appears eager to carry that torch, blending legacy with effort, and aiming to earn his place the Steelers way, through grit, aggression, and doing whatever it takes.
Alan Saunders and Brendan Howe provided reporting from Pittsburgh.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Rookie LB Was Raised on Hard-Nosed Steelers Culture
